Monday, June 14, 2010

Neighborhood Bidnass

I'd love to get rid of my car.

Picture it: I'd sell my Saab and buy a scooter (a red Stella with a matching helmet), and use the rest of the cash as a down payment on a condo in OtR. When not on scooter, I could hit the pavement with my bike, complete with a basket on the front.

I could walk the blocks to pick up my bread, milk and cuppa joe. Along the way, I'd say hello to friends, neighbors shopkeepers and other pals.

It sounds so Capra-esque.

Thing is, I don't know if my future neighborhood offers everything I need. Where do I take my dry cleaning? Where's the closest car wash? Is there a pharmacy in Over-the-Rhine? Are there any local Chinese restaurant joints that deliver in the neighborhood? Do the basic pizza chains deliver to OtR?

What about shoe repair, a manicurist and bank? Sure, I could do banking in Clifton, Walnut Hills or Downtown Cincinnati... but I'd love it if PNC had a branch in OtR, or at the very least, an ATM.

I so want to embrace my new neighborhood, and all the businesses it has to offer. I just wish more businesses would offer what I need...

I think it helps to think of Downtown-- all in easy walking distance-- as your neighborhood, and not just OTR. It's still growing. Maybe in a few years we can ditch our Saabs and not walk more than a few blocks for everything, but you still need just a bit of patience. :)